Aloe — description, properties and application, role in the body, side effects
Aloe
Aloe vera
Aloe barbadensis
Aloe vulgaris
Aloe arborescens
The virtues of aloe were recognized in ancient Egypt. Since ancient times, the gel squeezed from the fleshy leaves of this plant has been used to treat wounds and burns, and its juice has been used to treat digestive disorders.
Aloe — what is it
 Aloe tree. |
Aloe is a succulent from the lily family with prickly fleshy leaves. The gel from these leaves is widely used to treat wounds and burns. The first mention of such an application dates back to 1500 BC. The homeland of their various species, including the tree-like agave, is Africa and Madagascar. For commercial purposes, aloe is grown in the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, Japan and the USA. Gelatinous contents of juicy (succulent) leaves — aloe gel contains water, amino acids, polysaccharides, small amounts of sterols, lipids and enzymes. This gel is traditionally used to treat various skin diseases.
Indications for the use of aloe
• Externally
— Burns (including sunburn), cuts and small abrasions, insect bites, frostbite and other skin damage.
• Internally
— Digestive disorders.
| Caution! |
| Do not confuse the aloe gel obtained from the pulp of the leaves with the resin extracted from the juice of this plant, which with prolonged use can cause severe diarrhea, as well as affect the work of the heart and kidneys. It is contraindicated for pregnant and nursing mothers. If you are being treated with medications, take any supplements only with the permission of a doctor. |
Release form
• Ampoules
• Capsules
• Cream, gel
• Juice
| Your choice |
| When buying a product with aloe, make sure that it is listed first in the list of ingredients. In external means, it should be at least 20%. Among internal remedies, choose liquids that contain 98% aloe juice and, if possible, there is neither aloin nor emodin (active substances of resin). |
The role of aloe in the body
 The fleshy leaves of aloe contain a gel from which juice and other useful preparations can be prepared. |
Aloe gel is rich in anti-inflammatory substances, including the carbohydrate acemannan (with emollient properties), the enzyme bradykinase (relieving pain and swelling), various antipruritic agents. According to some studies, it also kills viruses, fungi and bacteria, or at least inhibits their development.
The main use of aloe
Aloe gel is an excellent external remedy for small wounds. In addition, it promotes the healing of mild burns (including sunburn) and frostbite, relieves skin soreness and itching caused by shingles. This gel forms a protective layer on the surface of the body, protecting damaged tissues from dehydration and infection. It is believed that it accelerates the regeneration of the epidermis. However, for the treatment of serious infected wounds, it is better to look for a stronger remedy.
Additional benefits
From aloe gel is prepared juice, which is drunk from gastrointestinal disorders. However, there is still insufficient evidence of its effectiveness. Dehydration of the gel gives powder, which is filled with capsules. Currently, an American laboratory is experimenting with an aloe derivative as a remedy for ulcerative colitis, one of the forms of chronic intestinal inflammation. The potential benefits of aloe for diabetic patients are also being investigated. In addition, its possible antiviral and immunostimulating properties are being studied.
| Do you know? |
| For sunburn, a bath with aloe is especially effective. Add about 250 ml of its juice to warm water. |
How to use aloe
• Doses
Externally: as necessary, lubricate the affected area thickly with gel or cream. Inside: 100-150 ml of juice 2-3 times a day or 1-2 capsules according to the instructions on the package.
• Application scheme
Externally: in case of burns, try to rub another portion of gel into the skin as soon as the previous one dries. Inside: it is advisable to drink juice between meals, and capsules can be swallowed during it.
• Caution!
Infovitamin.ru it reminds that the resin obtained from aloe juice is a powerful laxative. Use it carefully and only as directed by a doctor.
| Latest news |
| The benefits of aloe in psoriasis are being studied. Among 60 patients suffering from this disorder for a long time, when smearing the affected areas with aloe gel three times a day for 8 months, a noticeable improvement was noted in 83% of cases against only 6% in the placebo group. |
Possible side effects of the use of aloe
External use is completely safe. Very rarely there is redness or itching, in which it is necessary to stop using aloe. If the juice is prepared incorrectly, it may contain resins that have a laxative effect. If intestinal cramps or loose stools appear after taking it, immediately replace the product. Due to the possible presence of these substances, aloe juice is contraindicated for pregnant and nursing mothers.
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